YSW Launches Project to Strengthen Integrated Support for Children and Teen Mothers

YSW kicked off the ChildRise Project, marking a significant step toward strengthening integrated support systems for children, adolescents, and teen mothers. The project is anchored on a shared commitment to improve access to healthcare, psychosocial support, and nutrition through a coordinated, multi-sectoral approach.

Designed with a twin approach that reaches both in-school and out-of-school populations, the project convened a diverse group of stakeholders in Rongo and Awendo Sub-Counties. In the room were teen mothers, representatives from County Departments of Health, Education, and Agriculture, the Directorate of Children Services, the State Department of Gender, Youth Empowerment Centres, and civil society organizations—all united by a common purpose.

At the heart of the discussions were the voices that matter most—the teen mothers themselves. Guided by the principle of “nothing for us without us,” they actively participated, sharing lived experiences, challenges, and the realities they navigate daily. One of the teen mothers from Rongo Sub–County depicted the importance of empowerment, as she echoes the challenges, that she not only navigates but also support her peers to navigate as well.

“We are all concerned about young people,” noted Awendo Sub-County Director of Education, Justus Wasike. “As the project kicks off, we need to clearly understand the roles we each play to ensure it achieves its objectives.” His words set the tone—this was not just about participation, but about ownership and accountability.

That spirit of partnership was echoed by YSW Executive Director, Evelyn Samba, who emphasized the project’s collaborative approach. “We do not and cannot replace the government. Our role is to work alongside key stakeholders and local structures to ensure that the project sustainably complements government efforts in addressing the challenges affecting children, adolescents, and teen mothers living with and affected by HIV.”

Through this alignment, the project has laid a strong foundation for collaboration, creating a network of support that will help children, adolescents, and teen mothers not just cope—but rise.

The ChildRise project is funded by Else-Kröner-Fresenius-Stiftung.